The quaint village of Satoli, Uttarakhand is perched on a hillside offering sweeping views of the majestic Himalayas. Did you know that Satoli is an all the year round destination? The monsoon is as good a time to visit as spring, summer, or winter. It is a splendid time for planning a staycation in the hills.
While staying at One Partridge Hill, an ultra-luxe boutique property in Satoli, it’s the petrichor- the smell of rain-soaked earth – that perhaps captures the essence of the hills during the monsoons in one word! From the heady smell of rain-soaked earth, the caress of raindrops on your face, a hot cuppa tea in the village dhaba or gazing far into the horizon, the monsoon season is built to ensnare you.
During the rains, the verdant greenery comes alive as new leaves emerge from the stems. It’s enchanting to see the mist rise from the valley enveloping everything in its embrace. And as the dark clouds loom in the sky and the sound of thunder reverberates in the valley, the magic of the monsoon has you transfixed.
Blessed with serenity and panoramic views, Satoli is a dreamland for nature lovers during the rains. The green carpeted hills, blossoming flowers, rain-fed spectacular waterfalls, dense forests, bird-watching, the sound of the rain on your windowpane and the rising mist in the valley offer a mesmerising experience. What’s more, you can gaze into the distant Himalayas from the comfort of your beautifully appointed rooms with their extra-large windows as curl up with a book in your superbly comfortable bed.
There is a sense of abandonment, merriment and joy which pervades the mountain air during the rains. Nothing can beat the thrill of going on a trek and rediscovering yourself on the misty mountains. Rain showers can be followed by golden interludes of soft sunshine through the pine, oak or deodar forests.
As the sun plays hide and seek through the wet leaves, you can put on your hiking shoes to explore the forests around the property, the ‘Dak Bungalow’ trail or climb up-to ‘Kiyari Village’ where Gangaram one of the few remaining master craftsmen of ‘Likhai’ or wood-carving lives.
You can drive to Mukteshwar or Almora enjoying the beauty of either the tall Deodar forests or the Kosi river with the fresh mountain breeze playing around you. Enjoy the simple pleasures of swapping stories with village folks or head to the popular Maggi point to savour the delicious signature hill snack.
With fewer tourists during the rains, you can avail special monsoon packages making it easier on the pocket. You also escape the teeming tourists found during the high season.
Honeymooners and young couples can spend some quiet and memorable times together. It’s also a great bonding time for families. From a walk to a tree or a game of carom, scrabble or monopoly, create memories of your time spent together which will last a lifetime.
So this monsoon, pack your bags and head to One Partridge Hill, Satoli! It will nourish your soul.
